Premium
Qualitative and Comparative Analysis of Antemortem vs. Postmortem Root Hair Banding Use in Forensic Science
Author(s) -
Wiggins Abigail Grace
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.2019.33.1_supplement.lb354
Subject(s) - root (linguistics) , argus , forensic science , biology , medicine , dentistry , veterinary medicine , computer science , philosophy , linguistics , programming language
Hair is one of the most important types of evidence in Forensic Science. Hair can be used to place a victim, and an assailant, in the same location. One method utilizes root banding of a hair sample, recovered from a victim or crime scene, that are analyzed using microscopy. Postmortem root banding is observed in samples collected from deceased humans. This methodology is used to determine if the evidence came from a living, or deceased victim. However, postmortem root banding patterns have recently been observed in antemortem anagen hair samples, now referred to as antemortem root banding. Further characterization and comparison between the two types of root banding is needed to assist in determining the type of investigation required in forensic cases; missing persons or body recovery missions. The objective of this research is to better differentiate postmortem and antemortem root banding. Laboratory created antemortem root banding data will be characterized by the banding location on the hair follicle, coloration by stage, and width compared to corresponding postmortem root banding. This work is expected to contribute to advancements in the field of Forensic Science and strengthen the ability to differentiate postmortem and antemortem root banding. The legal argument of antemortem root banding, and postmortem root banding evidence is easily dismissible in a court of law. The ability to differentiate between the two types of root banding patterns will afford more reliable evidence in the judicial system. Support or Funding Information Department of Mathematics and Science, Saint Leo University, Saint Leo, FL 33574 This abstract is from the Experimental Biology 2019 Meeting. There is no full text article associated with this abstract published in The FASEB Journal .